ACA vs. Bullock County (details)

ACA vs. Bullock County
Friday, October 5, 2007
We will be leaving the school at 2:30 p.m. and stopping over at Eastchase to allow the kids to grab a bite to eat before heading over to Bullock County High School in Union Springs. Maps are available in the High School office. Be sure to send money for your child to eat along with the $10 transportation fee.

We should return to the school no later than 10:30ish Friday evening. Provided the Bus Driver follows our directions back home!!!

Just FYI on what happened this past Saturday following the band competition in Gadsden...

The driver of Bus 1 thought he knew a "shorter" way home. Apparently he missed several turns and wound up going around the world. Trust me, we were not thrilled at all!

Gary called the bus company first thing Monday morning to express our displeasure and was told that particular bus driver is the VP of the company and has a really 'good sense of direction'. To which Gary replied, "apparently not in this case!"

I've also been told "3rd party" that several of you tried to reach Gary and I on our cell phones. Neither one of us had any missed calls or messages from any parents. Please take a moment and program our numbers for such a case as this...462-3369 (Gary) and 462-3368 (Tracey).

Parent T-Shirts
I still have several parents that have not picked up their band t-shirts. I work at ACA in the High School office Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between the hours of 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Please stop by and pick up your shirt!!!

Rehearsal Schedule
Please check the Band Blog periodically for the latest rehearsal schedules. Visit www.acaband.blogspot.com.

Band Rates "Superior" & Other Announcements

Mid-South Marching Competition
Saturday, September 29th
Gadsden, Alabama
We could have told 'em that! The Band is SUPERIOR on and off the field! We couldn't be more proud of all the hard work by the kids and the leadership. The Marching Band scored all 1's which is "Superior" by performing a fantastic show Saturday night.

See pictures below. Sorry for the poor quality--the sun was at a terrible angle just in time for the show!

Also, click HERE for photos available for purchase from ProCat.

Upcoming Rehearsal/Game/Competition Schedule:
Tuesday, October 2nd until 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 4th until 6:00 p.m.
Friday, October 5th (away game to Bullock County)
(October 8th & 9th - School Holidays)
Wednesday, October 10th until 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 11th until 6:00 p.m.
Friday, October 12th - home game (ACA vs. Trinity)
Monday, October 15th until 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, October 16th until 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 17th until 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 18th until 6:00 p.m.
Friday, October 19th (away game to Daleville)
Saturday, October 20th - Hoover Competition (times T.B.A.)
Thursday, October 25th until 5:00 p.m.
Friday, October 26th - home game (ACA vs. Andalusia)
Thursday, November 1st rehearsal T.B.A.
Friday, November 2nd - home game (ACA vs. M.A.)
Saturday, November 3rd - Band performs for Faulkner game (times T.B.A.)

Rehearsal and/or Performance times are subject to change. The latest announcements will be posted with any changes and/or additional rehearsals.

Silly picture...

Awards ceremony on the field...

Marching Eagle Band Announcements

Parent T-Shirts Are In!
The parent t-shirts are in for those that pre-ordered. You may pick them up after school or after rehearsal on Tuesday or Thursday. Please see Tracey Kirksey or Elizabeth Staten to pick up your t-shirt.

Schedule for the Week of September 24th - 29th

Rehearsal each day after school in preparation for competition.




Thursday, September 27th
6:00 p.m. Pep Rally on the Football Field (immediately following rehearsal)
Be ready to perform the show!

Friday, September 28th
Meet at Catholic High School at 5:45 p.m. in full uniform

Saturday, September 29th
Mid-South Marching Competition
Gadsden, Alabama
~ Report to the band room no later than 10:45 a.m. SHARP! Be ready to load the instruments, equipment and buses for an 11:30 a.m. departure.
~ Bring money for lunch on the way to Gadsden
~ Performance at 6:00 p.m.
~ Bring money for dinner at the stadium after the performance (if desired)
~ Awards Ceremony at 9:00 p.m.
~ Return to ACA between midnight and 1:00 a.m.

If you have any questions, please email traceykirksey@knology.net.

The Latest Band Announcements!

Friday, September 21st

Homecoming!

The marching band will perform it's halftime show for pre-game due to the Homecoming festivities. They will also be performing during halftime for the Homecoming attendants and the crowning of the queen. Come out and show your support!

It's YOUR turn!

Concessions Workers Needed this Friday!

If you have not worked in the concessions stand, it's time to SERVE YOUR TURN! Each band parent is asked to work at least one football game this season. Please email traceykirksey@knology.net if you are able to work this Friday. We need 6 more 6th/7th grade band parent workers and 4 more high school band parent workers.

Band Parent T-Shirts

The t-shirts will be in Friday afternoon and ready for you to wear to the Homecoming game. If you ordered a t-shirt, please see Tracey Kirksey or Elizabeth Staten. Cost: $12

Mid-South Marching Competition

Gadsden, Alabama

Saturday, September 29th

Mr. Stough will be receiving the schedule of our performance time on Monday! I will post the information on performance times, departure times, etc. as soon as I receive it!

A Little "Housekeeping" & Performance Etiquette

for Band Parents & Band Students

Band Students:

1. Do not be late. Times to be ready to perform or rehearse before a game, competition or other event will be announced prior to the event.

2. March to and from the stadium with pride. The uniform is to be worn PROPERLY at all times. Your performance begins as soon as we march to the stadium or get off the bus. It does not end until you are dismissed by the Band Director or Drum Major. Do not break ranks until instructed to do so. When marching in ranks, you should be tall and proud. Do not let anyone outside of the band cut through the ranks. Do not talk when marching in rank!

3. You may not eat or drink in full uniform, except for water. Accidents will occur unexpectedly that may soil, stain or permanently damage your uniform. You will be instructed when it is appropriate to remove your band jacket and get something to eat and drink.

4. While at a performance, it is imperative that you sit with your designated section. This not only gives the band a uniform look, but also is crucial in maintaining a well-balanced and consistent sound.

5. Do not lean or sit on anything that will soil, tear, or snag your uniform.

6. There are to be NO VISITORS in the stands during a football game. Only High School Marching Band members, instructors or administrators are allowed in the band's stands. Former band members are allowed to play along with the band for the Homecoming game only. Do not allow your friends or family to sit with you in the band's stands. These rules are important from the standpoint of your safety. There will be no exceptions to this rule.

7. The general rule of thumb is that if you have any questions regarding whether you should or should not be doing something in uniform, DO NOT DO IT! When you are wearing the uniform, you are not looked upon by others as an individual, but rather as a part of the Alabama Christian Academy High School Marching Band. Most spectators and band members from other groups who will see you will form their opinion of the entire band from their opinion of how you behave!

Band Parents:

1. When the students report for a performance, they are under the direction of the Band Director. Whether they are getting off the bus, warming up in the "warm-up arc", marching to the field, performing in the stands or for the halftime show, they are under his direction. Please do not interrupt unless it is an absolute emergency. If you need to get a message to your child or have any other issue, please seek the permission of the Band Director.

2. Please do not go down onto the field during the halftime performance. There are numerous kids trying to get on and off the field, along with equipment and instruments. Only the Staging, Maintenance, and Performance Team Members should be on the field.

3. Please understand the "Chain of Command" in the Marching Band program. The Director of Bands is in charge, followed by the Drum Major and then section leaders. If you have a question, problem or concern, please talk with the Director of Bands for a resolution that is acceptable to all parties involved. The same holds true for the Band Boosters. Please talk with the Band Booster President(s) if you have any questions, problems or concerns that involve the Band Booster program.

4. Please be a part of the TEAM! It takes each one of us to operate a successful band and booster program. VOLUNTEER without being asked, SERVE humbly, GIVE selflessly and SUPPORT wholeheartidly.

Band Announcements

Parent Band T-Shirts
The FINAL deadline to order your parent band t-shirt is tomorrow, Tuesday, September 11th. The shirts will be black with the same logo as the student shirts. Please email traceykirksey@knology.net to place your order.

ALL BAND PARENTS asked to SERVE their TURN
in the CONCESSIONS STAND!!!
Concessions Workers Needed for this Friday's Game
First Half (6:00 p.m. thru half time)
Need eight more parents of 6th & 7th grade band members
Second Half (3rd Quarter thru clean-up)
Need six more parents of high school band members

Please email traceykirksey@knology.net if you are able to help this Friday!

Uniform Care
Please remember that the band uniforms are very expensive and should be treated with the utmost of care! They should be dry-cleaned after each performance during the "hot" months as sweat will cause the fabric to fade. Once the weather cools down, you won't need to dry-clean as often. Band uniforms should never be laundered.

Remember to keep your entire uniform (jacket and coveralls) together and hung neatly in your garment bag. Garment Racks are available in the Band Room so you can hang your uniform on game days, instead of throwing it on the floor.

If you have any questions regarding uniform care, please email Elizabeth Staten at epoohstaten@aol.com.

Upcoming Competitions
Saturday, September 29th
Mid-South Competition
Gadsden, Alabama

Saturday, October 20th
Hoover Invitational
Hoover, Alabama

No further details are known at this time. Once I have more information on departure and performance times, I will email and publish that information.

Transportation Fee, T-Shirt money, Glove money
If you have not paid the $10 transportation fee, please send it in (clearly labeled) and have your child put it in the band deposit box. Also, the $12 t-shirt and $5 glove money is due as well!

Spring Trip Forms
Don't forget the Spring Band Trip permission slip is due this Friday, September 14th. Please turn all forms in to the "Spring Trip" box on the table outside of Mr. Stough's office in the Band Room. More details will be announced soon!

Band Announcements

ACA vs. Opp (Away)
this Friday, September 7th
Students will be dismissed at approximately 1:45 p.m. on Friday and will help load the truck, gather their things and depart from the school at 2:30 p.m. for our "away" game to Opp. Don't forget your uniform, your band t-shirt, your gloves, your shoes and your hat!

Need Money for Food!
Students will also need money for dinner as we will be stopping to eat "fast food" on the way. If you have any questions, please email traceykirksey@knology.net.

$10 Transportation Fee
Please send the $10 transportation fee with your child on Friday. This needs to be turned in to Mrs. Kirksey before boarding the bus! This small fee helps offset the costs of chartering buses. It is not meant to be a hardship. If you have any questions, please email traceykirksey@knology.net.

Driving Directions to Opp (Available in the High School Office)
Take 331 South into Opp. Go over a bridge and pass the VFW. Turn right and go thru the business district. At the caution light, which is next to a hospital, take a left and that leads you to the stadium.

PAYMENT Due for Gloves and T-shirt!
If you have not paid for your child's t-shirt or gloves, please send the money in by this FRIDAY! Checks are preferred (made out to ACA Band) or put cash in an envelope labeled with your child's name.

$5 for Band Gloves

$12 for Band T-Shirts

Deadline Extended for Parent Band T-Shirts

If any parents are interested in getting a band "parent" t-shirt like the student t-shirts, please email your name and size to traceykirksey@knology.net. The NEW deadline to place your order is Monday, September 10th. Sizes are "adult" sizes and the cost is $12 (payable at time of delivery).

Band Announcements

First Home Football Game

ACA vs. Escambia County

Friday, August 31st

game time 7:00 p.m.

(Mr. Stough will let the students know what time to report to the band room.)

We are all very excited about the first performance. The kids have been working hard and we look forward to a fantastic show! Come out and show your support for the band!

Concessions Stand Open for Business this Friday Night!

We are so thankful to be able to operate the Visitor's side concessions stand. The Athletic Boosters are in the process of moving their items over to the new "home" side and we're going to give the old one a good cleaning and be ready for business on Friday.

We are asking parents of 6th & 7th grade band members to work the concessions stand from 6:00 p.m. (or as soon as you can get there) thru half-time and marching band parents to work 3rd Quarter thru clean-up. This will enable parents of marching band members to see their child perform. (You parents of younger band members will appreciate this when your child is marching in a year or two!)

If you have NOT volunteered to work the concessions stand, please email me at traceykirksey@knology.net to sign up for a game. We need 10 workers for each half!

3rd Quarter Snacks

Elizabeth Staten is in charge of lining up volunteers to provide snacks for the band during the 3rd Quarter of the game. If you have not signed up for a game, please email Elizabeth at epoohstaten@aol.com. Band Boosters provide iced down bottled water for the marching band students throughout the game.

Band Gloves

Cost: $5

Band gloves will be distributed Friday, August 31st. Please make sure your child brings $5 or a check for $5 for their band gloves.

Band T-Shirts

Cost: $12

Due: this Friday, August 31st

Due to the detail and color of the artwork, the t-shirts are $12 this year. The "proof" looks great and we know the kids are going to love them! T-shirts will be given out on Friday at the beginning of 7th period. Please make sure to send a check for $12 for your child's t-shirt.

Parent Band T-Shirts

If any parents are interested in getting a band "parent" t-shirt, please email me your name and size. The deadline to place your order will be Tuesday, September 4th. Sizes are "adult" sizes and the cost is $12. Email your request to traceykirksey@knology.net.

Coffee Shop Update

Band Boosters are so excited about operating the new coffee shop in the High School Commons Area. It is looking great and should be completed and open for business soon! More details will be posted when received!

Spring Trip Permission Slips

Just a reminder that permission slips are due by Friday, September 14th. This will allow us to have a preliminary count of the students attending the trip and also to coordinate chaperones.

If you have any questions regarding any of the announcements, please email traceykirksey@knology.net or call 462-3368.

Band Announcements

Band Kick-off Supper a Success!

WOW!!! Didn't the kids do a fantastic job for the show preview?! We were all blown away at the quality of the sound, the marching and how far they've come in putting the show together! I've heard so many encouraging comments and compliments of the band already. The kids have been troopers in this heat and have worked so hard. Thanks for a job well done, Mr. Stough and kids!

T-Shirts & Gloves

Band t-shirts will soon be on order and we will let you know how much they cost. Gloves are $5 per pair. You can pay when you receive your gloves. Delivery date to be announced.

Band-A-Rama Cancelled

Unfortunately, due to some scheduling conflicts with the other schools that were invited, the Band-A-Rama has been cancelled. Sorry kids!

Shoe Make-Up Date

Several band students were unable to order marching shoes during Rookie Camp. I have been in touch with Mr. Thompson (the shoe guy) and he is checking on a date when he can come back and size the kids that still need to order shoes. Date to be announced soon!

Items Arrived for the Concessions Stand

Our new funnel cake fryer along with our new sno cone machine has arrived! We are looking forward to having a permanent "home" for our concessions! Once we gain permanent access to the concessions stand, we will need several volunteers to help us clean it and get it ready for our first game on August 31st! More details to come!

6th & 7th Grade Parents Needed to Work Concessions Stand

We're Depending on YOU!

We need 6th & 7th Grade Parents to volunteer to work the Concessions Stand for every home game. This allows the High School parents to see their kids march during half time. YOU will appreciate this when your child is marching!!! You will be needed from 6:00 p.m. thru half time and then the High School parents will take over and work 3rd quarter thru clean-up. Please VOLUNTEER TODAY by emailing me at traceykirksey@knology.net.

Yes...the rumors are true!

The High School band is taking a trip in the Spring!

Here are preliminary details (more information will be mailed soon):

Trip to Festival Disney in Orlando, Florida

Departing the morning of April 23rd and returning the morning of April 27th

Cost will be broken down in payments - total is $450 per student (4 to a room)

Includes:

• 3 nights hotel at the All-Star Resort
• 3-day Disney Park Hopper Ticket
• 3 Disney breakfast vouchers
• 2 Disney dinner coupons
• 1 dinner at Rainforest Cafe
• Festival t-shirt and baggage tag
• Transportation

Please know that I will post information as I receive it. More details, along with a commitment form, will be mailed in the next couple of weeks.

If you have any questions, problems, concerns, suggestions, please email me at traceykirksey@knology.net.

The Latest Announcements...

Kick-off Supper & Band Show Preview

Tuesday, August 7th

5:45 p.m. (NOTE NEW TIME!!!)

The show preview will take place on the football field promptly at 5:45 p.m. followed by our Chick-fil-A supper and brief, but informative Booster meeting.

The DEADLINE to turn in your reservation is this Friday, August 3rd at 12:00 noon!!! Email your reservation to Tracey at traceykirksey@knology.net or call 462-3368 (cell).

Workers Needed to Help Set-Up for Chick-fil-A Supper!

If you are able to come and help set up for the supper, we will begin around 3:00 p.m. in the M.P.R. We need some MEN that can help with the tables! Please email Julie Berube, Special Events Coordinator, at phjumara@bellsouth.net or jberube@alabamachristian.com if you are willing to help!

NEW Band Payment Box!!!
There is a metal cash box for band payments (transportation fees, Booster memberships, etc.) mounted on top of the black file cabinet just outside of Mr. Stough's office. There are also envelopes in a plexiglass stand with a pen to record your name and what the money is for. PLEASE use this payment box! This will help money from being misplaced. It is securely mounted and locked in place with just a slot to drop your payment. We will check it regularly. Make sure your name is on the envelope!

Band Photo
Monday, August 6th

9:00 a.m. on the football field

This will be a group photo and individual photos if you would like. Order forms will go home tomorrow (Wednesday) and MUST be turned in at time of taking the photo!

Attire: FULL band uniform which includes, jacket, coveralls, shako (which is the hat), black socks and black band shoes. If your shoes have not come in yet, you can just wear black socks or some other type of solid black shoes.

Students Note! Wednesday before leaving rehearsal, I need...

• your T-Shirt size
• your Glove size
• to give you your Band Photo Order Form

DO NOT LEAVE until I have seen you about the things listed above!!!

Check the latest rehearsal schedule listed (below) or on the Band web site at http://www.acaband.blogspot.com/.

Announcements, Information & a Priceless Video!

The first full week of band camp is over! The kids worked hard and played hard too (see video at the end of this post). So much progress was made and I think all the parents will really be surprised at our Kick-Off Supper & Show Preview on August 7th!

Now for the announcements...

Band Rehearsal Schedule for next two weeks:
Monday, July 30th
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Tuesday, July 31st
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Wednesday, August 1st
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Thursday, August 2nd (no rehearsal)

Friday, August 3rd (tentatively)
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Mr. Stough will let the kids know on Wednesday if this rehearsal is confirmed.

Monday, August 6th (this is also processing day)
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
(immediately following the band photo--see info. below)

Tuesday, August 7th (Chick-fil-A Supper & Show Preview Day)
3:00 p.m. rehearsal until 6:00 p.m. when the show preview will take place!

Processing Day Volunteers Needed!
We are in need of volunteers to work the Band Booster table during processing. Processing Day is Monday, August 6th from 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. If you are able to sign-up for 30 minutes or an hour, please email me at traceykirksey@knology.net.

Band Photo Day!
Monday, August 6th
9:00 a.m. (sharp!) on the football field
Band students MUST be in FULL uniform (including shako, black shoes, instrument, etc.).
Order forms will be distributed at rehearsal on Wednesday, August 1st and must be returned the day of the photo! (This is the group photo that goes in the yearbook and the football programs and also individual photos are taken that day too).

Bring a change of clothes--rehearsal following the Band Photo!
Monday, August 6th
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Don't forget, this means you must process either earlier before the photo and rehearsal or right at noon!

Chick-fil-A Band Booster Kick-off Supper & Band Show Preview
Tuesday, August 7th
6:00 p.m. (show preview on the football field)
followed by a Chick-fil-A supper and first Band Booster meeting in the M.P.R.
Cost: $5 per ticket (all students need a ticket too!)
ALL BANDS ARE INVITED! (6th grade, 7th grade and High School Marching Band)
If you have any questions, please email me at traceykirksey@knology.net.

Volunteers Needed to help with Chick-fil-A Supper
We need volunteers to help set-up (beginning at approximately 3:00 p.m.), help serve and help with clean-up. If you are able to volunteer, please email Julie Berube, Special Events Coordinator, at phjumara@bellsouth.net or jberube@alabamachristian.com.

Band Information Forms
I still have several students that haven't turned in their band student/parent information sheets and/or their $5 band camp fee. I will send that list in a separate email.

Band Camp Water Balloon War
Check out this priceless video (turn up your speakers) and the photo below...

Band Camp - Day 3

The kids came ready to work hard again! The morning was spent on the field polishing up the sets that had already been learned plus a 30 minute break! After lunch, the kids went into sectionals to work on "Sir Duke" and then out to the field to add more sets!

The humidity was high, but the Lord was good keeping the sun behind a BIG cloud ALL afternoon while the kids were marching! At the end of the day, the kids are treated to popsicles for a nice cool down!

Enjoy the videos...

Adding more sets...

Band Camp - Day 2 plus announcements!

Well, we knew the pleasant weather wouldn't last long! Seems like someone turned on the "humidity" switch yesterday afternoon! The kids worked hard all day--marching in the morning, then a group rehearsal with Mr. Stough and then marching again late in the afternoon. Each day builds on the day before and it's really starting to come together.

Great work, kids! And a big "thank you" to Mr. Stough for his dedication and leadership!

Don't forget your $5 band camp fee is due today along with your paperwork! Parents, if your kids forgot to bring it today---PLEASE have it in no later than tomorrow!

Sorry no pictures or video for Day 2--but I think this one sums it up...

(no, this is not a homeless child! This is sweet Savannah, listening to the group rehearsal in the afternoon, curled up in the garment bag box and took advantage of nap time!)

Day 1 - Band Camp 2007

Well, it was not as sizzling hot as it's been in years past during band camp. This morning was quite pleasant while the sun stayed behind the clouds and allowed the kids to really get some good work done. Mr. Stough, our director, Rachel Phillips, Color Guard Coordinator, and Kevin Morrison, Visual Coordinator, were all keeping the kids on task! Our drink crew, Elizabeth Staten, Judy Rittenour, my hubby, Gary, and myself were there making sure the kids stayed hydrated by providing Gatorade and ice water. Also, thanks to Mrs. Rittenour for providing the mist fans.

The kids worked hard setting drill all morning, then after lunch, broke into sectionals and then back again on the field by 2:45 p.m. to work more drill with instruments this time!

Below are pictures and a video. REMEMBER parents, each day of camp BUILDS on the day before!!! The video may sound a little "rough around the edges" but it is AWESOME for the FIRST DAY of band camp! We are so proud of all of you kids!

See you bright and early in the morning...and don't forget your sunscreen!!! We saw alot of red little faces out there today!

Lots of Band Announcements!

PLEASE read ALL the announcements! There are some pertaining to Marching Band and others that apply to the entire band program!

Full Marching Band Camp
July 23rd - 27th
and July 30th - August 1st
8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Band Camp Fee is $5.00.
(Please bring this in by Wednesday, July 25th.)

Information packets with student/parent information sheets, permission slips, etc. will be sent home the first day of band camp and due back by Wednesday, July 25th.

Information:
~ wear shorts and t-shirts (acceptable for school wear but uniforms are not required)
~ wear Athletic type shoes and socks (no boots, croks, sandals, etc.)
~ bring personal water cooler (water breaks will be short, but frequent)
~ wear plenty of Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher recommended)
~ bring a lunch or lunch money, plus a couple of healthy snacks (band not providing lunch)

Band Uniform Fitting
Each day immediately following band camp, we will have different sections stay a few minutes later for their uniform fitting. This will keep us front interrupting band camp rehearsal. If everyone cooperates and follows instructions, it will only take a few minutes.

The following sections are to remain after rehearsal on the following days:
Monday:
Flutes and Clarinets
Tuesday:
Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Trumpets
Thursday:
Mellophones, Trombones, Percussion
Friday:
Baritones, Tubas

If you have any problems or conflicts on the day scheduled, please talk with Mrs. Elizabeth Staten and she will make alternate arrangements. Her email is epoohstaten@aol.com.

Lunch Sitter Volunteers Needed During Band Camp!
We need an adult chaperone to sit with the band kids that remain in the band room for lunch during band camp. We need one volunteer per day, Monday - Friday or the following Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday of camp. You would need to arrive around 11:30 a.m. and remain until about 1:00 p.m. If you are able to volunteer, PLEASE email me at traceykirksey@knology.net and let me know which day you are able to chaperone. Your assistance is greatly appreciated!

Processing Day Volunteers Needed!
We will have a Band Booster table set-up for processing day. We are in need of volunteers to work the table from 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. If you can stay 30 minutes to an hour, it would be greatly appreciated. Please email me with the time you are able to work the table. (NOTE: processing finishes at 1:00 p.m., not 3:00 p.m. like stated on calendar!)

Exciting New Things on the Horizon!
We have some exciting new things to discuss with Band Boosters this year!!! We are going to need volunteers to "step up" and assist this year MORE THAN ANY YEAR BEFORE!!! We cannot do this without YOU! Remember...TOGETHER we achieve MUCH!

Dates to Remember:

Band Booster Kick-Off Supper & Show Preview
(this is open to all band members--not just marching band!
Tuesday, August 7th at 6:00 p.m.
Reservation Forms will be in the band camp packets. I will also email the form to all band parents (6th & 7th graders) and you can mail your reservations to the school to the attention of the Band Boosters. Don't miss out on all the exciting announcements that will be made that evening!!!

First Annual Band-A-Rama
Thursday, August 23rd
Join us for an exciting evening as we bring together all the private school bands in our area for a preview of their marching shows. Help us host this event and show our hospitality to the community! Concession Stand workers will be needed!!!

2007-2008 Football Schedule
August 31st - Escambia Co. (home)
September 7 - Opp (away)
September 14 - St. James (home)
September 21 - Ashford (home)
September 28 - Catholic (away)
October 5 - Bullock Co. (to be determined)
October 12 - Trinity (home)
October 19 - Daleville (away)
October 26 - Andalusia (home)
November 2 - Montgomery Academy (home)

Competition Dates:
September 29th & October 20th
More details will be announced as the dates get closer!

Whew! That's alot of announcements! We're starting the year off with a bang and we are SO excited about this coming year in the band program and are so glad you and your child are a part of it!

As always, if you have any questions, concerns, suggestions, please don't hesitate to email either Gary at gkirksey@knology.net or Tracey at traceykirksey@knology.net or acabands@yahoo.com. We look forward to working with you to make this the best band booster program around!

Off to a good start!

Marching Band has hit the ground running! Tuesday evening was the kick-off to this year's marching season. It was almost a full group playing rehearsal and for their first time together, they sounded great. There is still lots of "polishing" to do, but that will come in time with plenty of rehearsal. The big thunderstorm that rolled through caught some of them off guard with their vehicle windows rolled down, but it sure didn't dampen their enthusiasm!

Today was the first day of Rookie Camp and the kids did great. It wasn't too hot, but even still, we had plenty of ice water to keep the kids hydrated. When asked how he felt it went, Mr. Stough replied, "I think this is the best group of rookies we've had! Today was a great day!"

Posted below are some pictures. I will try to feature all the kids at some point during band camp. Rest up and be ready for another day of hard work tomorrow!

Reminders!

REMINDER!
Full Band Playing Rehearsal
Tuesday, July 17th
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
in the Band Room

Rookie Camp (those that are new to marching)
July 18th-20th
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Summer Band Announcements!

Band Camp is just around the corner and we are looking forward to your participation! We trust each of you received a summer band calendar in the mail. Here is a reminder of important upcoming dates:

Full Band Playing Rehearsal
Tuesday, July 17th
7:00 - 8:30 p.m. in the Band Room

Rookie Camp (those that are new to marching)
July 18th-20th
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon

Full Band Camp
July 23rd - August 1st
8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Band Camp Fee is $5.00.
Please bring this in by Wednesday, July 25th.
Information packets with student/parent information sheets, permission slips, etc. will be sent home the first day of band camp and due back the end of the week.

Information:

• wear shorts and t-shirts (acceptable for school wear but uniforms are not required)
• wear Athletic type shoes and socks (no boots, croks, sandals, etc.)
• bring personal water cooler (water breaks will be short, but frequent)
• wear plenty of Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher recommended)
• bring a lunch or lunch money, plus a couple of healthy snacks (band not providing lunch)

Marching Shoes Fitting
Thursday, July 19th
11:00 a.m.
This is for students who need the black marching shoes. The cost is $26 and payable at the time of the fitting. Checks should be made out to James Thompson (the shoe guy).

Your Band Booster Officers for 2007-2008
Gary and Tracey Kirksey, Presidents
Tony and Elizabeth Staten, Vice-Presidents
Deborah Streetman, Treasurer
Diane Patterson, Secretary
Judy Rittenour, Fundraising/Ways & Means
Mike Bush, Staging/Maintenance/Performance
Phil and Julie Berube, Special Events Coordinators
Laura Harris, Publications
Cecilia Porterfield, 7th Grade Representative
Wendy Jones, 6th Grade Representative

We are looking forward to another great year! We have a super team of band parents that step up and get the job done! Remember, TOGETHER WE ACHIEVE MUCH!

Monday's Band Announcements

Band Luau Set-Up ~ We Need Your Help!

We are meeting at Landmark Life Center at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 14th to set-up for the Luau. PLEASE come help...many hands make light work! We will work until we are finished.

End of the Year Band Banquet Luau

Tuesday, May 15th

6:00 p.m. at Landmark Life Center

Attire: Hawaiian attire (must be appropriate for a school function)

Donation Box for Mr. Stough's Gift!

We will have a donation box set-up at the ticket table at the luau to donate toward's Mr. Stough's end-of-the-year gift (cash preferred, but checks accepted) . Please be GENEROUS and help us show Mr. Stough our appreciation for his leadership of the ACA Bands.

ACA Band Concert - In Memory of Katie Strunk

ACA Spring Band Concert

A Benefit for the Enterprise High School Band Building

In Memory of Kathryn Madora Strunk

Tuesday, May 8th

6:00 p.m. in the M.P.R.

Tonight's concert will be dedicated in memory of Katie Strunk. A donation box will be available for donations to be given to the rebuilding of the Enterprise High School Band Building in memory of Katie.

Please come prepared to give as the Lord places it on your heart.

Clarification on several announcements...

Seems as though I have overloaded the band parents with lots of announcements lately! That's how it is the closer it gets to the end of the school year...things get crazy!!! Let me try to clarify some things...

Band Photos
This Thursday, May 3rd

during 7th period

This is the big "composite" photo that you see on the band room wall. The kids take their individual pictures in their band uniform; color guard is in their uniform and runners are in their black runner's t-shirt and khakis.

I have no information on photo order forms. Mr. Harrell is the contact person regarding the photos and his email address is eharrell@alabamachristian.com.

Uniform Turn-In Day is the SAME day!

Once the kids have had their picture made, they must turn in their uniform (including hat) to Mrs. Staten and Mrs. Rittenour. Uniforms are to have been DRY-CLEANED! We understand that they will be putting on a clean uniform, but only for a few minutes. Make sure the dry-cleaning receipt is turned in with the uniform.

ACA Bands Spring Concert

Tuesday, May 8th

6:00 p.m. in the M.P.R.

Attire is usually "Sunday" attire, but Mr. Stough will give the kids more information.

Band Booster Officer Elections

We will hold a very brief "Booster Meeting" during the Spring Concert to elect officers. Due to the "busy-ness" of the end of the year calendar, we have been unable to hold a separate meeting.

If you are interested in volunteering for a position, please view the descriptions on the band blog (www.acaband.blogspot.com) and then email me regarding the position in which you would like to volunteer.

End of the Year Band Banquet Luau

(for all ACA Band Students, grades 6-12)

Tuesday, May 15th

6:00 p.m. at Landmark Life Center

Cost: $5 per person (band students are free)

Attire: Hawaiian attire!

If your family joined the Boosters during the year, you will receive two (2) complimentary tickets AT the SPRING CONCERT! Band Students will receive their complimentary ticket during their band period class on Monday, May 7th.

All other family members that would like to attend (siblings, grandparents, etc.) may purchase tickets for $5 per person. These tickets are being sold in several locations and by several band officers for your convenience. Please see the following people for tickets: Peggy Oliver, Cecilia Porterfield, Michele Hensley, Elizabeth Staten, Tracey Kirksey, or stop by the High School Office!

The FINAL deadline to purchase tickets is May 8th (this has been extended to allow you to purchase tickets at the Spring Concert as well).

I know this is alot of information, but please read it carefully and print it and put it in a handy location! If you have any other questions, please email me at traceykirksey@knology.net.